“James has an impeccable record in corporate governance and administration for two decades and brings to V8 Supercars a wealth of experience,” he said.

“Aside from being a pre-eminent Australian corporate leader, James also has a deep understanding in the business of motorsport having been on the board of the Australian Grand Prix Corporation and a current Director of Dorna Sports which manages MotoGP worldwide.

“James will help guide V8 Supercars through its next growth phase and his corporate experience and motorsport knowledge will be invaluable as the Board and management team embark on that process.”

In addition to being the former Chairman of Woolworths, Strong is currently Chairman of the organising committee for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015, Chairman of Kathmandu Holdings and a Director of Qantas.

He has also been Chairman of the Australia Council for the Arts, and was CEO of Qantas from 1993 to 2001.

“All forms of motorsport are a passion of mine and I have been honoured to work for many years with the Australian Grand Prix Corporation and in my current role with MotoGP through Dorna,” Strong said.

“V8 Supercars is without doubt the leading motorsport category in this region and a force worldwide. I look forward to contributing to the next phase of the V8 Supercars development and growth.

“The sport is in wonderful shape for the future and I want to play an active part in the next period of evolution; the potential is unlimited.”

V8 Supercars Director Andrew Gray said: “we are thrilled that James has agreed to join us and are excited about the wisdom and strategic insights he will add to the pursuit of our growth plans.”